As cold and flu season approaches, it’s difficult not to reach for comforting childhood home remedies like chicken noodle soup, saltine crackers, and ginger ale.

Yet, popular store-bought ginger ales like Canada Dry and Schweppes may hinder healing due to their artificial ingredients and high sugar content.

ith its warm, gingery flavor, ginger ale might seem like the perfect comfort drink when you’re feeling unwell. However, many readily available ginger ales contain no real ginger, relying instead on artificial flavoring. The inflammatory effects of these artificial ingredients and high sugar content suggest they may do more harm than good, potentially hindering recovery. Even brands that use real ginger often include it in such small amounts that any potential benefit remains minimal. Any relief from these ginger ales is likely due to their carbonation, which can help soothe an upset stomach for some individuals. The bubbles in carbonated drinks may promote burping, relieving built-up stomach pressure. On the other hand, the gas and acidity in these drinks could potentially worsen symptoms for others.

Why Fresh Ginger Is a True Wellness Hero

The warm, spicy, and citrusy aromas and flavors of more natural ginger ales come from gingerols—bioactive compounds in ginger that have captured significant interest in medical research. This prized herb and spice has a long-standing role in traditional and alternative medicine, frequently used to aid digestion, alleviate nausea, and fight the flu and the common cold. Fresh ginger is available year-round, thanks to overlapping growing seasons around the globe.

A Better Option: Fresh Ginger or Homemade Ginger Ale

If you’re still craving ginger ale, be sure to check nutrition labels for sodas with lower sugar and a decent amount of real ginger. You can also add a dash of ground ginger to your morning coffee or tea for a quick dose of gingerol. For the best choice, buy fresh ginger root and make our Merry Ginger Ale—it’s simple to prepare, delicious year-round, and budget-friendly.

Your Feel-Good Favorites

When you’re feeling ill, staying hydrated is essential. What is your go-to feel-good drink—peppermint tea, electrolytes, or something else? We’d love to hear what works best for you!

This content is for informational purposes only and is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

Your Health, Your Wellness—A Gentle Reminder

Before incorporating new foods and drinks into your diet, it’s important to seek personalized medical advice to ensure they align with your individual health needs. Everyone is unique, and factors such as medications, potential interactions, medical conditions, and upcoming procedures can greatly impact what is safe and beneficial to consume. A tailored diet not only supports physical health but also promotes inner balance and an overall sense of well-being.